Villarreal’s inconsistent nature raises questions over squad planning

By Rahul Lakhani

Villarreal are third in La Liga with a game in hand after their best-ever start to a season, statistically at least. But negativity feels just round the corner.

The Champions League and Copa Del Rey disasters in December have not been forgotten despite some positive results in the league, but their curtain of invincibility against ‘inferior’ sides was ripped apart in a brutal 90 minutes away at Getafe.

I was at La Ceramica as the Yellow Submarine put on a show against Espanyol, with Nicolas Pepe, Alberto Moleiro and Georges Mikautadze showing just how deadly they could be as a front three, now that the summer signings have settled.

This evaporated against Getafe, with Moleiro and Mikautadze absent as Marcelino arrived at La Coliseum with a heavily depleted squad.

Despite a huge drive in the summer window to build a bigger squad capable of competing in Europe, there is still a lack of depth in key areas, and some of the decisions have now come under the spotlight.

Hugo Lopez was thrown in for his first La Liga start at Getafe, and their physical torment, which Pau Navarro was quick to complain about after, meant it was a tough day for the youngster who was withdrawn at half time.

This comes after a January window in which Ilias Akhomach was loaned to Rayo Vallecano, and Manor Solomon’s contract was ripped up. Alfon came in from Sevilla as an extra body, but arrived injured.

Villarreal’s lack of attacking and wing depth was on full display in Madrid, and across the capital the next day, Ilias helped Rayo rip Atletico Madrid to shreds. Some of the Moroccan’s flair and speed would certainly have been useful for his parent club.

The midfield has been an issue throughout the season, with the Champions League highlighting how a technically skilled, deeper lying midfielder is an absolute necessity. Dani Parejo is still showcasing his intelligence and vision, but he is no longer capable of producing over 90 minutes several times a week.

The lack of depth highlights why Marcelino’s side have hit such a contrast between extraordinary highs and lows. At their best this season, Villarreal have been a joy to watch with fast counters, incredible skills and a lot of goals. When the key components come out of the team, the level drops rapidly.

This simply has to be addressed in the summer. Right now, the uncertainty stretches across the club, with Marcelino’s contract up at the end of the season and many are unsure if he and the club are on the same page with regards to a renewal.

When this is resolved, the squad needs both a clearout and extra depth. Last summer was the busiest in Villarreal’s history, and a similarly chaotic one may end up taking place. 

The advantage this time, though, is with a second season of Champions League football, the likes of Moleiro and Mikautadze may not depart as Thierno Barry and Alex Baena did a year ago.